Home Remedies for Loose Motion: Combat Diarrhea Naturally

Nobody enjoys the unpleasant surprise of loose motion, and dealing with it can be an uncomfortable experience that can disrupt your daily routine. Whether caused by mild stomach issues, dietary changes, medicines, or other factors, finding relief at home is often the first line of defense. Thankfully, before reaching for any medication, you can often find relief in your kitchen. From easily available ingredients to practical tips, let’s discover effective ways to restore comfort and return to feeling our best. Let’s explore some safe and effective home remedies to soothe your gut and get things back on track.

What Causes Loose Motions?

There might be various reasons for diarrhea; here are some common causes-

• Viral infections- Viruses are the most common cause of diarrhea. The rotavirus and norovirus are two common culprits. These viruses infect the lining of the intestines, preventing water absorption and nutrients properly, and can cause loose motions and other abdominal issues.
• Food intolerance-  Some people are intolerant to specific foods like lactose or gluten. Consuming these can cause irritating intestines and diarrhea.
• Bacterial infections- Bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Shigella can also cause loose motions. These bacteria can be found in contaminated food or water. 
• Parasites- Parasites, like giardia and cryptosporidium, are found in contaminated water or food and can be the reason for diarrhea. 
• Medications- Side effects of some medications can also be the reason for loose motions.
• Medical conditions- Some conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome, can also cause diarrhea.

Common Symptoms of Loose Motions

Loose motions are not just watery stools but also cause various symptoms, including. 

• Watery and loose stools
• Increased frequency of stools 
• Urgency
• Abdominal cramps and pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dehydration
• Mucus or blood in stools
• Bloating and gas
• Fever and chills

If you experience any of the above symptoms for over two days, consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Don’t ignore your gut’s messages – listen to its signals and give it the care it needs!

10 Effective Home Remedies to Treat Loose Motion

Here are some of the most popular and effective home remedies to treat loose motion- 

Drink Water

Dehydration is one of the major concerns with loose motions. The body fades up and loses essential minerals during loose motions. Therefore, it is important to prioritize yourself with plenty of fluids during loose motions. Plain water is your best friend, but coconut water and electrolytes will provide you with the essential minerals you are losing in diarrhea. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine, which can worsen symptoms.

BRAT Diet

Bland is beautiful for an upset gut. The BRAT diet – bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast – are easily digestible and help to firm up stools. This diet is recommended for people recovering from gastrointestinal issues, including loose motions.

Probiotics

Probiotics are found in yogurt, rich in good bacteria that support a healthy gut. It helps in restoring your gut health. Yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods like kimchi are rich in good bacteria that aid digestion and fight harmful ones.

Ginger Tea

This is one of the traditional and effective methods to treat loose motion. The ginger has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and relief from loose motions. Try a soothing cup of ginger tea using fresh ginger slices in hot water. Its calming effect on the digestive system will reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. Ginger, cardamom, and mint have long been used to ease stomach woes. 

White Rice

Many people are still confused about consuming white rice in loose motions. But don’t be. White rice is an easy-to-digest food that helps soothe an upset stomach. It acts as a binding agent, helping to firm up stools. Eat well-cooked white rice to ease digestive discomfort and promote recovery.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is well-known for its calming properties and provides a soothing experience to the stomach in digestive issues. It helps to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, reducing cramping and promoting a sense of overall health. 

Bananas 

Everyone profits from eating bananas. But did you know it is also a go-to remedy for loose motions? Yes, they are rich in pectin, absorb liquid in the intestines, and form a protective layer that reduces irritation. In addition, bananas are rich in essential nutrients and help your body to recover those essential nutrients during loose motions.

Psyllium husk

It is one of the common methods to treat stomach issues. It is commonly known as isabgol, one of the best options for constipation, and is beneficial for managing loose motions. When consumed with water, it adds bulk to the stool, which eases the loose motions. It also helps to reduce irritation and inflammation in the intestines, providing relief from the discomfort associated with loose motions. 

Tips to prevent loose motions 

Here are some tips for preventing loose motions:

•  Sanitize or wash your hands with soap and water before eating.
•  Cook food to the proper temperature.
•  Avoid eating and drinking water from unhygienic places.
•  Do not eat raw or undercooked meat or seafood.
•  Be careful when traveling to countries with poor sanitation.
•  Manage stress levels.
•  Talk to your doctor and take diagnostic tests to assess your condition.

Foods to Avoid in Loose Motion

There are some foods you must avoid during loose motions; these are- 

•  Fatty and Greasy Foods
•  Spicy and Sugary Treats 
•  Dairy Products 
•  Raw Fruits and Vegetables
•  Cruciferous Vegetables
•  Gas-Producing Foods
•  Caffeine and Alcohol
•  Carbonated Drinks

Beyond the Home Remedies

While these home remedies are effective for mild cases, if you are not getting relief for more than 3 days, then consult your doctor. Your doctor might advise CBC, KFT, or electrolytes to diagnose your condition. However, to prevent future episodes, practice good hygiene and avoid unhygienic food. By understanding the symptoms of loose motions, you can proactively take care of your digestive health and avoid potential complications. Stay hydrated, listen to your body, and seek medical advice to get your tummy back on track!